rssMar 25, 2026, 12:00

More people to the polls in K-buurt Zuidoost, but turnout still 'far too low'

Voter turnout in Amsterdam's K-buurt neighborhood rose to 27.8% during the municipal elections, a significant increase attributed to local community mobilization efforts. Despite this progress, experts highlight that turnout in districts like Zuidoost and Nieuw-West remains well below the city average of 47.1%, reflecting persistent inequality in political participation. To address this, researchers urge the municipality to invest in grassroots organizations that can better connect residents with local politics.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Midwife challenges speeding fine on way to delivery: ‘Can’t drive 30 with sweating armpits’

Dutch midwife Karolien van Beek is challenging a speeding fine in court, arguing that the urgency of childbirth sometimes necessitates driving above the speed limit. She is seeking legal recognition for the professional necessity of midwives to arrive quickly at deliveries, as many currently face frequent fines.

Critical biography of Wim Hof named best journalistic book

Journalists Robert van de Griend and Anneke Stoffelen have won the 2025 Brusseprijs for their book De ijsprofeet, a critical biography of wellness guru Wim Hof. The award recognizes the work as the best journalistic book of the year.

Thom de Graaf wants debate on ending snap elections

Thom de Graaf, the outgoing Vice President of the Dutch Council of State, suggests that the Netherlands should consider forming new coalitions instead of holding interim elections when a cabinet falls. He argues this change would provide a more stable political environment following a government collapse.

‘Standing with Giants’ permanent at Castricum beach entrance. ‘You will no longer walk past these men carelessly’

A permanent 'Standing with Giants' monument has been unveiled at the beach entrance in Castricum to commemorate seven crew members who died in May 1943 during World War II. The iron silhouettes are intended to ensure that the sacrifice of these men, who lost their lives while returning home, is no longer overlooked by those visiting the area.

No trains between Haarlem and Amsterdam Sloterdijk due to defective railway bridge

Train services between Haarlem and Amsterdam Sloterdijk are suspended on Sunday afternoon due to a defective railway bridge. The disruption is expected to last until 2:45 PM.